Shows
The ManagementOS Podcast: Scale Without Sacrifice, Lead With AI, Live Longer & Build Happy TeamsBefore You Raise Capital: How To Avoid These Fundraising Traps (Vijay Rajendran, CEOMasterMind.AI and ManagementOS.Ai)A higher valuation can hide a worse deal. Months of investor meetings can lead nowhere without a clear process. And even a signed term sheet still needs someone to drive the round to completion.Before your next capital raise, understand what those mistakes could cost you.Vijay Rajendran, entrepreneur, investor, and author of The Funding Framework: Secure Startup Funding with Confidence, joins us to unpack a disciplined approach to fundraising: storytelling, organization, targeted outreach, and closing.We explore how to make the customer the...
2026-10-0549 min
Small Business StoriesHow to Get Startup Funding with Vijay RajendranS6:E77 A funding round can transform a company. It can also change who controls it, how it's expected to grow and even whether the founder remains CEO. So perhaps the first fundraising question shouldn't be How do I get the money? It should be: Do I actually want what comes with it? Queue up this episode of Small Business Stories with Vijay Rajendran, founder of Startup System and author of The Funding Framework, for a grounded look inside startup fundraising in 2026. Vijay describes a market where...
2026-09-0435 minSmall Business StoriesHow to Get Startup Funding with Vijay RajendranS6:E77 A funding round can transform a company. It can also change who controls it, how it's expected to grow and even whether the founder remains CEO. So perhaps the first fundraising question shouldn't be How do I get the money? It should be: Do I actually want what comes with it? Queue up this episode of Small Business Stories with Vijay Rajendran, founder of Startup System and author of The Funding Framework, for a grounded look inside startup fundraising in 2026. Vijay describes a market where...
2026-09-0435 minSmall Business StoriesHow to Get Startup Funding with Vijay RajendranS6:E77 A funding round can transform a company. It can also change who controls it, how it's expected to grow and even whether the founder remains CEO. So perhaps the first fundraising question shouldn't be How do I get the money? It should be: Do I actually want what comes with it? Queue up this episode of Small Business Stories with Vijay Rajendran, founder of Startup System and author of The Funding Framework, for a grounded look inside startup fundraising in 2026. Vijay describes a market where...
2026-09-0435 minSmall Business StoriesHow to Get Startup Funding with Vijay RajendranS6:E77 A funding round can transform a company. It can also change who controls it, how it's expected to grow and even whether the founder remains CEO. So perhaps the first fundraising question shouldn't be How do I get the money? It should be: Do I actually want what comes with it? Queue up this episode of Small Business Stories with Vijay Rajendran, founder of Startup System and author of The Funding Framework, for a grounded look inside startup fundraising in 2026. Vijay describes a market where...
2026-09-0435 min
South CentralSamastha cannot dictate to Muslim women | CM Vijay’s PM dream | South Central 91In this week's South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss controversial remarks by Muslim religious leader Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliyar on women’s participation in public religious events.They are joined by Shahina KK, Founder and Editor of Offbeat Concerns, and Sunaina Shahida Ikbal, Writer, Psychologist and Academician.In the second part of the episode, the conversation turns to the growing calls for Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay to become Prime Minister in 2029, and what the phenomenon says about celebrity politics, political cults and Vijay’s ambitions. The hosts are joined by journalist E.T...
2026-09-041h 16
South CentralCM Vijay’s Parandur decision | India’s new anti-reservation drama | South Central 90In this week's South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to scrap the Parandur airport project. They are joined by aviation safety consultant Captain Mohan Ranganathan and K E Raghunathan, national chairman of the Association of Indian Entrepreneurs.In the second part of the episode, the hosts discuss the recent anti-reservation movement. They are joined by Professor Ravikant Kisana.Audio timecodes:00:00:00 - Introduction00:02:27 - Headlines00:09:12 - Scrapping of Parandur Airport project00:45:09 - Anti-reservation movement01:19:53 - Recommendations
2026-08-281h 23
Freelance to FounderThe Mindset Shift Nobody Tells You AboutFatima has been running solo for years and finally feels ready to lead a team—but she's stuck on how to actually think like a CEO instead of a freelancer doing everything herself. Preston and Vijay Rajendran break down the real transition between founder and executive, introducing the idea of becoming a "chief enablement officer" before you can become a chief executive one. They dig into building trust with new hires, using a RACI framework to clarify who owns what, and why letting go of control—not working harder—is what actually lets your business grow.
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2026-07-2013 min
The Girl Dad Show: A Professional Parenting PodcastLeadership, Capital & Fatherhood: Building CEOs While Raising a Family| Vijay Rajendran | Episode 222n this episode of The Girl Dad Show, Young Han sits down with Vijay Rajendran—executive coach, entrepreneur, investor, startup advisor, UC Berkeley instructor, and author of The Funding Framework: Secure Startup Funding with Confidence.
Drawing from more than 20 years of experience helping founders grow into effective CEOs, Vijay shares valuable insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, raising capital, and balancing the demands of family life. From supporting startups in over 80 countries to coaching leaders through pivotal moments, Vijay offers a unique perspective on what it takes to build successful businesses while remaining present at home.
Young and Vijay discuss why leadership is...
2026-07-2033 minFreelance to FounderDaily Grind Keeping You From Growing?Lucas runs a freelance business he knows has real potential — but every time he tries to think bigger, the daily grind of client work pulls him back in. He wants a genuine roadmap for growth, not just more hustle. Preston and Vijay Rajendran, founder coach at Startup System and partner at GAI Ventures, walk through what it actually takes to build that bigger vision: why your values have to come first, the simple three-part framework that keeps a growth roadmap grounded, and how to carve out the mental space to act like a CEO — even when your inbox is full...
2026-07-1018 min
Build AI - by gAI VenturesAI agents, MCPs, infrastructure, and what's nextThis is a special edition of Build AI, recorded shortly after the gAI Ventures LP lunchat Citizens Private Bank in Menlo Park.Amit Goel, Vijay Rajendran, and Kushal Prakash — the three partners at gAI Ventures —sit down to unpack the insights they shared with limited partners and prospectiveinvestors: how they're reading the current phase of the AI wave, what the "SaaS-pocalypse"actually means, why "tasks are not jobs" is the framework they use to evaluate newventures, and what they've learned from 18 months of building vertical AI companiesacross financial services, enterprise productivity, and commerce.This is candid, unfiltered thinking from thre...
2026-07-0752 min
Top Decile PodcastVertical First, AI Second: Why Domain Experts Win | Vijay Rajendran & Amit Goel, gAI VenturesVijay Rajendran led portfolio value creation at 500 Global across 2,800 companies in 80 countries before co-founding gAI Ventures. Amit Goel brings 20 years as a payments and identity operator, including building and selling a fintech company. Together they've built a venture studio around one central idea: vertical expertise should drive AI company formation, not the other way around.We get into why most enterprise AI deployments fail despite the hype, what Amit means when he says a task is not a job, and how gAI co-builds from the ground up with domain experts before carving portfolio companies out as independent...
2026-07-0325 minFreelance to FounderYou Hired. But Now You Just Fix Their Errors All Day.Lucia has hired her first subcontractors—a milestone worth celebrating. But now she's spending more time correcting their work than she is on her own, and she's starting to wonder if the whole thing is worth it. Preston and Vijay Rajendran, startup coach and author of The Funding Framework, unpack the real reason delegation breaks down and lay out a practical spectrum—from direction to deferring—that helps leaders calibrate how much oversight each person actually needs. If you've ever found yourself quietly redoing someone else's work, this one's for you.
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2026-07-0320 min
Thought Resonant ShowThe Future of AI Startups: What Every Founder Must Know | Vijay Rajendran | Episode -135In this powerful episode of The Thought Resonant Show, Yogi Saurav welcomes the inspiring Vijay Rajendran, venture builder, executive coach, and founder of GAI Ventures, where he partners with visionary entrepreneurs to transform industry expertise into scalable AI-driven businesses. Passionate about venture creation, founder development, and vertical AI innovation, Vijay is helping shape the next generation of startups built for long-term impact and sustainable growth. With years of experience as a founder, startup accelerator leader, investor, and executive coach, Vijay has worked alongside hundreds of entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of building companies...
2026-07-0223 minFreelance to FounderThis Kind of Project Changes EverythingNia has been freelancing solo for years and just landed the kind of project that changes everything—her first big team project. She's excited, but the reality is setting in fast: she can't do this one alone. Preston and Vijay Rajendran, founder coach at Startup System and partner at GAI Ventures, walk through what it really takes to go from lone freelancer to effective team leader. From identifying your zone of genius to knowing exactly what to look for in your first collaborators, this episode is a practical guide for anyone approaching that pivotal moment when the work gets bi...
2026-07-0218 min
South CentralVijay, the Governor and future of INDIA allianceIn this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the political developments in Tamil Nadu and the national implications of the fallout between DMK and Congress. They are joined by TNM’s Tamil Nadu bureau chief, Shabbir Ahmed, journalist and political analyst Rasheed Kidwai, and K Venkataramanan, a senior journalist who was previously with The Hindu.Support South CentralOnce a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to southcentral@thenewsminute.com
2026-05-081h 01Build AI - by gAI VenturesThe Truth About Enterprise AI Nobody Is Saying Out Loud | Amit G, Kushal P, Vijay R | Build AI Ep.19In this conversation, Amit Goel, Vijay Rajendran, and Kushal Prakash debate why the 2024–25 hype cycle of generic copilots and chatbots failed enterprises, why "the juice isn't worth the squeeze" for most generic deployments, and why the next decade belongs to hyper-vertical AI — purpose-built systems that solve specific, deep, regulated workflows that horizontal models simply cannot.For accredited US investors interested in our startup fund, write to vijay@gai.ventures.All investment is subject to accreditation verification. This podcast is not an offer to sell securities.
2026-05-0741 min
South CentralCan Vijay break DMK–AIADMK hold? | Bennix–Jayaraj case: Why verdict stands out | South CentralIn this episode on South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. They are joined by The Deccan Herald’s Assistant Editor Sivapriyan and journalist and translator Kavitha Muralidharan. In the second segment of the episode, the hosts discuss the verdict in the Sathankulam police station case in which Bennix and Jayaraj were tortured to death. A court in Madurai gave the death penalty to nine police officers, and the hosts go into the details of the verdict. They are joined by Anisha Sheth, TNM’s Karnataka Bureau Chief.Th...
2026-04-101h 06
Ready, Set, Startup! - Strategies from Founders, Funders, and BeyondThe Founder’s Focus: Culture, Capital, & Conviction w/ Vijay Rajendran of Startup SystemWhat happens when you jump into entrepreneurship without a co-founder and without a safety net? Vijay Rajendran has done just that, and more. In this episode, he shares his journey from launching Hungry Globetrotter to leading digital innovation at global banks and advising hundreds of startups. We dig into the emotional weight of solo founding, the value of structured support, and why your “path to moat” matters more than having one on day one. Vijay also talks about his approach to hiring, staying in your zone of genius, and increasing your surface area for opportunity. Packed with practical wisdom and...
2026-02-2342 min
The {Closed} Session4 Part Framework to Secure Startup FundingMost founders pitch the wrong metrics while $200 billion flows into AI startups annually. Vijay Rajendran, author of #1 Amazon bestseller "The Funding Framework" and venture builder at gAI Ventures, breaks down why fundraising feels harder despite abundant capital. He reveals the four-part system that shifts founders from pitching to partnering, why retention metrics will expose vanity user counts, and how inference costs are crushing margins for AI companies that don't understand their unit economics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2026-02-1636 min
Tech Talks DailyVijay Rajendran on Why Startup Advice Fails When Reality Kicks InWhat really happens after the startup advice runs out and founders are left facing decisions no pitch deck ever prepared them for? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Vijay Rajendran, a founder, venture capitalist, UC Berkeley instructor, and author of The Funding Framework, to discuss the realities of company building that rarely appear on social feeds or investor blogs. Vijay has spent years working alongside founders at the sharpest end of growth, from early fundraising conversations through to the personal and leadership shifts that scaling demands. That experience shapes a conversation that...
2026-01-2326 min
Uncomplicated Marketing#83 Fundraising Isn't Just About ConnectionsFrom Founder to CEO: Vijay Rajendran on The Founding Framework, Fundraising Psychology, and Building a High-Trust TeamIn this episode of Uncomplicated, I sit down with Vijay Rajendran Berkeley, trained executive coach, startup advisor, and former investor to break down what it really takes to evolve from “chief everything officer” into a true CEO.With two decades supporting founders worldwide (including leading global startup support at 500 Global and advising through GAI Ventures), Vijay has coached hundreds of entrepreneurs through the moments that make or break a company: building teams, navigating co-founder conflict, and fundraising with clar...
2026-01-1543 min
The Focus Bee Show354. Vijay Rajendran: Transformation from Founder to CEO354. Vijay Rajendran: Transformation from Founder to CEO 🎯Get your free FULL FOCUS guide and join the bi-weekly Focus Newsletter here: https://thefocusbee.kit.com/focus-guide 💫 VIP 1-1 Coaching: Interested in 1-1 Coaching with Katie, fill in this form to join the coaching waiting list: https://tinyurl.com/VIPCoaching-with-Katie Vijay Rajendran, supports founders to go from founder to CEO. In this episode, we dive into the bottlenecks of being a founder, how to develop strategic clarity, and the traits needed to succeed as a founder.
2026-01-0635 minBuild AI - by gAI VenturesBuild The Next Great AI Company | Amit Goel, Kushal Prakash, Vijay Rajendran | Build AI Podcast 11The gAI Ventures team (Amit Goel, Vijay Rajendran, and Kushal Prakash) breaks down the most defining shifts in AI, from the headline-making Waymo baby moment, to the rapid rise of vertical AI, to the realities of multi-agent systems, workflow-level automation, and the new distribution layer emerging through AEO. This is a builder’s perspective on what actually worked, what quietly failed, and what’s coming next for founders, operators, and enterprise leaders deploying AI in the real world.
2025-12-2945 minFreelance to FounderAre You Thinking Big Enough?Breaking free from the day-to-day grind isn't just a dream—it's a strategic necessity for freelancers and small business owners looking to transform their work. In this episode, Preston and Vijay Rajendran dive deep into how to create a meaningful vision and actionable roadmap for your business, offering insights that go far beyond traditional growth strategies.
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StartupSystem | Read My Book | Follow me on Substack Learn more about your ad choices. V...
2025-12-2317 min
The Tech Leader's PlaybookThe One Question Every Founder Gets Wrong About Their MarketFor more thoughts, clips, and updates, follow Avetis Antaplyan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avetisantaplyanIn this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan sits down with Vijay Rajendran, investor and venture builder at gAI Ventures, UC Berkeley instructor, and author of the bestselling book The Funding Framework. Vijay brings a deeply grounded perspective on how the next generation of AI companies will actually be built, not through hype or speed alone, but through domain expertise, thoughtful leadership, and disciplined execution.The conversation explores why domain experts...
2025-12-1748 min
We Live to BuildWill the AI Bubble Burst? (Geopolitics & The $400B Bet)Is the $400 billion currently being poured into AI infrastructure a visionary bet or a massive bubble waiting to burst? Vijay Rajendran explains why we are seeing the biggest investment in fixed capital since the railroads, and what could cause it all to come crashing down. In this interview, Vijay and Sean discuss the new velocity of fundraising, where startups hit $100M ARR in months, and the rise of "seed-strapping" (raising once, then profiting). They also debate why VCs are obsessed with "founder pedigree," the structural reasons why European startups struggle to scale compared to the US, and the geopolitical...
2025-12-1631 min
The Brand Called YouVijay Rajendran, Investor at gAI Ventures: Leadership, AI Innovation, and the Secrets of Startup FundraisingWelcome to another episode of The Brand Called You! In this inspiring conversation, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Vijay Rajendran, investor at gAI Ventures and author of "The Funding Framework: Decoding Startup Fundraising". Tune in as Vijay Rajendran shares his unique journey across technology, finance, and venture capital, and reveals valuable insights into building startups, the real-world effects of AI, and how founders can succeed in the challenging landscape of fundraising.Discover the differences between venture builders and traditional VC firms, the myths and opportunities around AI startups, and how storytelling and strategic fundraising can make...
2025-12-1626 min
DissedMedia: A Startup StoryEpisode 34: Vijay Rajendran | How Startups Grow Beyond the Founder Stage
In this episode of DissedMedia: A Startup Story, Ben sits down with Vijay Rajendran, startup coach, venture builder, and author of The Funding Framework, to unpack how startups evolve beyond the founder stage. Vijay shares the realities of scaling from vision to structure, explaining why sustainable growth depends on leadership maturity, clear communication, and the right balance of funding, sales, and people.
Drawing from years of experience mentoring founders and launching global venture studios, Vijay reveals how great companies are built on systems, not luck. He also spotlights Lingo Tune, a groundbreaking new venture that uses music...
2025-11-2859 minFreelance to FounderWhy We Struggle to DelegateDelegation is the critical skill that separates struggling freelancers from successful business founders. In this episode, Preston Lee and Vijay Rajendran break down the complex art of managing subcontractors, offering a roadmap for entrepreneurs who find themselves constantly fixing mistakes and feeling overwhelmed.
Learn how to transform your leadership approach from constant oversight to strategic team development. This episode provides practical insights that can help you build a more efficient, scalable business by mastering the nuanced art of delegation.
Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors
Submit your own question ->...
2025-11-2820 minFreelance to FounderHow to Navigate Your First Big ProjectGrowing your freelance business often means taking on larger projects that require collaboration. But how do you successfully manage a team when you've been a solo operator? In this episode, Preston Lee and special guest Vijay Rajendran dive deep into the art of building and leading your first team project, offering invaluable insights for freelancers ready to level up their business.
Vijay Rajendran brings a wealth of experience from venture capital, startup coaching, and founding multiple businesses to provide a nuanced approach to team building that goes far beyond traditional hiring practices.
Support our show...
2025-11-2718 min
Zaka Presents: My Journey#190 Zaka Presents My Journey Vijay RajendranVijay Rajendran has coached founders in more than 80 countries, but in this conversation we go far beyond Silicon Valley buzzwords and venture metrics. Vijay opens up about growing up between countries, learning to read new cultures and power dynamics from scratch, and how those immigrant experiences shaped his approach to leadership, risk, and resilience. He shares how watching his father serve patients from every walk of life led him to microfinance work in Cameroon, and how that calling to “be of service” eventually evolved into coaching entrepreneurial leaders around the world. We talk about pressure, expectations, and that simple but...
2025-11-2538 min
Startup and NationThe Funding Framework: How Founders Can Master Storytelling, Fundraising, and Market Strategy | Vijay Rajendran, gAI VenturesIn this episode of Startup & Nation, I sit down with Vijay Rajendran, an investor, founder, venture builder at gAI Ventures, and author of The Funding Framework, one of the most practical and accessible fundraising books released this year.We discuss how founders can master storytelling, navigate investors with intention, evaluate market size, differentiate from incumbents, and approach fundraising as a repeatable system rather than luck. Vijay draws from his experience as a startup operator, a VC at 500 Global, a founder, and now a builder of vertical AI companies.If you’re a founder raising your fi...
2025-11-2127 min
Startup Stories from the TreehouseWhy Most Founders Approach Fundraising Backwards (And How to Fix It)In "The Funding Framework: Secure Startup Funding With Confidence," Vijay Rajendran reveals that most founders approach fundraising backward—blasting pitch decks to countless investors rather than targeting those with a true fit. He advocates treating fundraising like enterprise sales: build relationships before you need capital, prioritize quality over quantity, and manage the process systematically. Rajendran’s four-step framework emphasizes storytelling, preparation, targeted outreach, and disciplined closing. He urges founders to focus on customer traction over chasing VC checks, build teams based on unique role requirements, and recognize AI’s shift in startup moats from technology to data and distribution. The bo...
2025-11-2047 min
Organized ChaosEp. 33 - Turning Startup Challenges into OpportunitiesIn this episode of Organized Chaos, I am joined by Vijay Rajendran, an executive coach, advisor, and author who helps startup founders navigate their biggest challenges: fundraising, sales, and people management.You'll learn about:The Four-Phase Funding FrameworkPhase 1 - Storytelling: Moving beyond the pitch to craft a compelling narrative about your company's purpose and vision.Phase 2 - Organization: The importance of preparation, including having your data room and deck in order.Phase 3 - Strategic Outreach: Treating fundraising like an enterprise sale by targeting investors for whom your business is a perfect fit, avoiding the demoralizing "spray...
2025-11-0438 min
TOOLS TALENTS AND TECHNIQUES with Dustin SuttonUnlocking Startup Success with Vijay Rajendran (Ep. 92)In this episode, Dustin Sutton sits down with Vijay Rajendran, startup advisor, entrepreneur, and author, to explore the art of fundraising, mentorship, and building resilient startups. Vijay shares his journey across entrepreneurship and investing, breaking down how founders can leverage storytelling, resilience, and strong relationships to raise capital and scale effectively.We dive into his perspective on fundraising as a learned skill, the role of mentors and networks, and why honest feedback and finding the right investors are critical to long-term startup success. Vijay also shares insights on the future of AI investment and why adaptability is...
2025-10-0746 min
Coffee With ConveryFrom Startups to CEO Success with Vijay RajendranWelcome back to Coffee with Convery, where wecaffeinate your curiosity with bold stories, actionable insights, and fresh takes on how we define and design success.Today’s guest, Vijay Rajendran, is a venture builder, founder, UC Berkeley Certified Executive Coach, and author of TheFunding Framework: Secure Startup Funding with Confidence. Vijay helps leaders scale not only their startups but also themselves. Vijay has spent over 20 years at the intersection ofentrepreneurship, venture capital, and leadership. From building fintech and ecommerce startups to leading portfolio value at 500 Global — a venture capital firm with $2.7 billion under management — to mentor...
2025-10-0238 min
Command Post CohortThe Journey from Founder to CEO: with Special Guest Vijay RajendranIn this episode, Craig and Andrew engage with Vijay Rajendran, a founder and entrepreneur, discussing the multifaceted challenges of leadership in startups. They explore the transition from being a 'Chief Everything Officer' to a more strategic role, emphasizing the importance of frameworks, resilience, and effective communication in navigating the startup landscape. Vijay shares insights on the learnable aspects of fundraising, team building, and the necessity of creating systems that allow for reflection and growth. The conversation highlights the significance of a growth mindset and the need for founders to adapt as their companies scale....
2025-09-1733 minBuild AI - by gAI VenturesInside the Venture Studio Model | Vijay Rajendran & Amit Goel | Build AI Podcast 08In this episode of Build AI, we go deep into the future of AI startups, venture studios, and why traditional startup models are being disrupted. This is not your typical discussion on fundraising or startup hustle. This is a masterclass in startup creation at the intersection of AI, domain expertise, and venture building.
2025-09-1054 min
Produck PodcastMomentum, Storytelling, and Raising Capital: Vijay Rajendran’s Startup SystemWhat separates founders who ship, sell, and scale from those who stall? In this episode, former 500 Global leader and author of "The Funding Framework", Vijay Rajendran breaks down a practical system for building startups that last—from validating with customers (not code), to crafting investor-ready stories, to running a tight 10–12 week fundraise. We also dig into why teams really fail (spoiler: trust and communication), how to shift from Chief Everything Officer to Chief Enablement Officer, and the mindset that turns early traction into durable momentum.What you’ll learn:The Funding Framework: systems (not se...
2025-09-061h 03
Tech for Non-Techies266. Founder-Led vs. Product-Led Growth: how to pick the right path for your startupMost founders dream of creating a product so good it sells itself. That's the promise of product-led growth: customers discover, share, and adopt your product with little to no sales effort. Sadly that's rarely the reality. In the early stages, almost every founder has to do the hard, unglamorous work of founder-led growth: building trust, making offers and facing rejection. In this episode, you will learn from Vijay Rajendran, author of The Funding Framework: Secure Startup Funding With Confidence. Vijay previously led portfolio value at 500 Global, a venture capital...
2025-08-2036 min
Dorm Room VenturesThe Funding Playbook You Wish You Had Sooner w/ Vijay RajendranFundraising can feel overwhelming, especially for student founders trying to break into the startup ecosystem. In this episode, Vijay Rajendran breaks down a clear, four-part funding framework that helps bring structure and confidence to the fundraising process. We dive into the art of storytelling, staying organized, effective outreach, and closing deals.
Vijay shares how building genuine trust with investors and mastering communication are critical to success. He also highlights the importance of timing your fundraising efforts right and learning from real-world experiences to sharpen your approach. Whether you’re just starting to fundraise or looking to improve yo...
2025-08-1135 min
Business MasteryThe Startup landscape has changed, again!Guest: Vijay Rajendran Talk to My "Twin" : http://askwizly.ai/vijay-rajendranRead My Book: https://a.co/d/flhs7km Substack: https://startupsystem.substack.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijayarajendran/ *************************************************************************** We help Early-Stage Businesses to grow and Scale. Startups, Scaleups, boot-strapped or funded we will help YOU get to the next stage in your growth! Here you will find tips, tricks, guides, and pitfalls to avoid that will empower you to THRIVE. We will show you step-by-step what you need to know and what actions you need to take. This advice will come from people who have done...
2025-07-3029 min
Projecting GrandeurFrom Founder to Leader: Vijay Rajendran on Fundraising, Burnout & Projecting GrandeurIn this episode of Projecting Grandeur, host Ron Dichter sits down with Vijay Rajendran—founder, investor, startup coach, and author of The Funding Framework. Vijay has spent his career helping startups scale and, more importantly, helping founders evolve into intentional, effective leaders.This conversation dives deep into the mindset shift from doing to leading, the nuances of raising capital with clarity, and how to stay grounded when the stakes get high. Whether you’re navigating your first raise or wrestling with burnout, Vijay brings real insight on what it means to grow into your role without losing your...
2025-07-3029 min
South CentralSouth Central 36 | Vijay in TN politics, pilots question Air India crash cockpit reportIn this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Raghunath first discuss actor Vijay’s entry into Tamil Nadu politics. They are joined by senior journalist Kavitha Muralidharan and TNM’s Tamil Nadu bureau chief Shabbir Ahamed, who speak at length about whether Vijay will impact the state’s politics and if his party’s followers, who are predominantly fans of his films, are politicised enough to give him an election win. In the second part of the episode, the hosts are joined by Captain Amit Singh and Captain Sam Thomas, who weigh in on the A...
2025-07-181h 28
South CentralVijay Mallya’s Half-truths & Kingfisher’s Fall ft. Sucheta Dalal| Saffronising Bharat Matha in Kerala?In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the Vijay Mallya podcast and why political patronage for big businessmen is detrimental. Joining them is senior business journalist Sucheta Dalal. In the second discussion, the hosts delve into the Bharat Mata image controversy in Kerala and the impact of university VCs and Governors endorsing such symbols.Audio Timecodes 00:00:00- Introduction00:01:05- Announcements 00:05:40- Headlines00:11:05 - Vijay Mallya’s Half-Truths01:00:32- Saffornisation of Bharat Mata1:16:47 - Recommendations O...
2025-07-111h 20
Unlock A Riveting Full Audiobook On Your Commute.The Funding Framework by Vijay RajendranPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/78932to listen full audiobooks.
Title: The Funding Framework
Author: Vijay Rajendran
Narrator: Virtual Voice
Format: mp3
Length: 3 hrs and 19 mins
Release date: 07-11-25
Ratings: Not rated yet
Genres: Corporate & Public Finance
Publisher's Summary:
2025-07-113h 19
GTM VaultScaling the Founder Before the Company | Vijay RajendranVijay Rajendran — executive coach, venture builder, and author of The Funding Framework — joins GTM Vault to explore what it really takes to grow from founder to fundable CEO in today’s fast-moving startup landscape.Vijay has helped founders raise capital in 80+ countries, led Portfolio Value at 500 Global, and now coaches high-growth leaders on how to lead with clarity, raise with confidence, and scale without burning out.In this episode:Why confidence comes from clarityHow to shift from reactive hustle to intentional leadershipThe role of GTM motion in making your startup default investableFundraising strate...
2025-07-0535 min
The Founder InitiativeThe Funding Framework, ex 500 Global, Vijay Rajendran - unique steps used by successful founders to get funded🔑 Unique Learnings
Fundraising reflects operational discipline—how you fundraise is a preview of how you’ll run your company.
Vulnerability is only powerful when it’s paired with credibility.
Cold outreach is almost useless without signal. Warm intros from LPs or founders are disproportionately effective.
Running a tight, time-boxed process is a hidden superpower.
Investment memos are underutilized but highly effective—especially when articulating risks and vision in written form.
TIME STAMP
(00:00:00) Crafting a Strategic Fundraising Framework Approach
(00:09:09) Strategic Tool for Investor Engagement and Transparency
(00:13:28) Utilizing Social Proof for Investor Trust
(00:18:06) "Capturing VC Attention Through Strategic Initiatives"
(00:22:22) Structured Time Constraints for Success...
2025-05-2223 min
CC PodSpecial Episode: Climate Angels (with Nishant Mani and Vijay Rajendran)This is CC Pod - the Climate Capital Podcast. You are receiving this because you have subscribed to our Substack. If you’d like to manage your Climate Capital Substack subscription, click here. Disclaimer: CC Pod is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any investment decision.Don’t miss an episode from Climate Capital!In this special episode of the CC Pod, we're diving into the why and how of climate ange...
2025-02-2620 min
South CentralSouth Central Ep 5: Kerala Actor Assault Case, Rahul Gandhi’s Leadership, and Vijay-VCK-DMK rowIn this episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath are joined by author and activist Meena Kandasamy and TNM's senior editor Ragamalika Karthikeyan. Leena delves into Kerala’s actor assault case, highlighting judicial delays and systemic issues. Dhanya discusses how the visuals of the sexual assault were illegally accessed by court employees and no criminal proceedings are being done on them.The survivor has meanwhile written to the President for help. Raga says, “I think it's process as punishment for the survivor. Everything that is happening, whether it is the courts, how the j...
2024-12-131h 21
An Operator's Blog - with Soumitra SharmaFundraising in Silicon Valley for Immigrant FoundersThis episode explores the playbook, mindset, and tips to fundraise as an immigrant founder in Silicon Valley. We cover everything from dealing with cultural baggage, getting warm intros and building trust, prepping your startup to be venture-fundable, storytelling to stand out amongst the crowd, leaning on peer founders and mentors, going from leads to warm conversations to money in the bank, the “right” mindset and attitude to have when pitching VCs and finally, a 5-step framework for fundraising.
Joining me for this discussion is Vijay Rajendran, an executive coach based in Silicon Valley. Over a 20-year career as a...
2024-12-0443 min
South CentralSouth Central Episode 1: Chandrachud’s Legacy, Vijay’s Political Rise, & Communalism in BureaucracyWelcome to South Central, a brand-new TNM podcast that delves into the stories shaping southern India.In the first episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath are joined by Prof. of Law Anup Surendranath and Newslaundry’s Abhinandan Sekhri.Discussing former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud’s comment that he turned to god during the Ayodhya case, Abhinandan says, “Religiosity is something that progressives or liberals mock at their own peril because not everybody who is religious or invokes religion is a bad person.”Anup was critical of the ‘Cha...
2024-11-151h 21
Founders PodcastHow to Raise Funds as a First Time FounderEver wondered what it takes to turn a bold idea into a thriving global business? Our guest today has done it all—from building startups and leading venture studios to coaching founders on how to unleash their true potential. He’s been on both sides of the table—investing millions and scraping for funds himself. With two decades of experience in the trenches, he's the go-to guy for navigating the chaos of the startup world. Stick around, because this conversation is about to get real, raw, and absolutely invaluable. Please welcome Vijay Rajendran. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privac...
2024-11-1153 min
Creating the World's Best Client ExperienceWorking in the Start-up Space with Vijay RajendranIn this episode, I chat with Vijay Rajendran, an executive coach, about how high-performing leaders can enhance client experiences and drive transformational results. We explore the unique challenges faced by founders, emphasizing the importance of empathy, tailored approaches, and effective decision-making.Vijay shares insights on optimizing client interactions, the evolving landscape of startup funding, and the power of authentic storytelling. This conversation provides practical strategies for leaders looking to strengthen client relationships and achieve lasting success.(Previously on The Ultimate Journey of Self-care ep. 304)HIGHLIGHTS:15:54 Shifts in Startup Focus21:10...
2024-10-3136 min
The Ultimate Journey of Self-CareSelf-Care from an Executive Coaching Perspective: Defining Boundaries & Priorities with Vijay RajendranIn this episode, I am joined by Vijay Rajendran, an executive coach and founder of Startup Systems, as we delve into the evolving conversation around self-care in the context of performance and leadership.Our discussion highlights the importance of prioritizing not only our own well-being but also that of our teams. We explore the shifting narrative away from traditional strategies of success towards an integrated approach that takes self-care into account for sustained productivity and effectiveness.Vijay shares his diverse background, from his experiences during the dot-com bubble to his journey in the Peace Corps...
2024-10-2236 min
Harmonious at LunchHow to Grow Your Business Like a Startup (Without Burning Out)Feeling stuck? Want to take your established business to the next level? This episode of Harmonious at Lunch dives into the world of startup growth strategies and shows you how to adapt them for your existing company.Our guest, Vijay Rajendran, is a Berkeley-trained executive coach with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, investor, and advisor. He's helped hundreds of founders become CEOs, and today, he shares his insights on achieving sustainable hyper-growth.In this episode, you'll learn:The key differences between growing a startup and a mature businessHow to adopt a "startup...
2024-10-1625 min
Vision Pros Live PodcastWhere did your vision come from? Featuring Vijay RajendranWhere did your vision come from? Featuring Vijay Rajendran
2024-09-2501 min
Vision Pros Live PodcastTell me about your vision. Featuring Vijay RajendranTell me about your vision. Featuring Vijay Rajendran
2024-09-1108 min
Vision Pros Live PodcastWhat's your vision? Featuring Vijay Rajendran. Podcast Session 1What's your vision? Featuring Vijay Rajendran. Podcast Session 1
2024-09-1001 min
Startup HustleTransition from Founder to CEO, Resiliency, Avoiding BurnoutIn this episode, Matt Watson interviews Vijay Rajendran, the coach and CEO of Startup System, about startup resilience and fundraising in the current economic climate. They discuss the challenges faced by startups, the importance of being cashflow positive, and the need to adapt and refine value propositions. They also explore the role of marketing, the significance of communication and delegation for founders transitioning to CEOs, and the value of aligning goals and values. Vijay offers coaching and support to founders in various areas, including funding, go-to-market strategies, team building, and metrics. Takeaways Startups are facing economic...
2024-08-0637 min
CC PodHow Can Data Decarbonize Factories? (with Lauren Dunford @ Guidewheel)This is CC Pod - the Climate Capital Podcast. You are receiving this because you have subscribed to our Substack. If you’d like to manage your Climate Capital Substack subscription, click here. Disclaimer: For full disclosure, Guidewheel is a portfolio company at Climate Capital, where Vijay works as a Syndicate Investor and Advisor.CC Pod is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any investment decision.Don’t miss an episode from Clim...
2024-05-0827 min
CC PodGreener Investment Portfolios (with Zach Stein @ Carbon Collective)This is CC Pod - the Climate Capital Podcast. You are receiving this because you have subscribed to our Substack. If you’d like to manage your Climate Capital Substack subscription, click here. Disclaimer: For full disclosure, Carbon Collective is a portfolio company at Climate Capital, where Vijay works as a Syndicate Investor and Advisor.CC Pod is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any investment decision.Don’t miss an episode from...
2024-02-0235 min
eWeek eSpeaksZoho’s Vijaykumar Rajendran on Workplace Collaboration TrendsVijay Rajendran, Head of Product for Zoho, discussed the evolving technology of workplace collaboration software, including the role of AI in improving content flow across the enterprise.
2023-12-0829 min
CC PodSpecial Episode: What is the Climate Angels Program? (with Vijay Rajendran @ Climate Capital)This is CC Pod - the Climate Capital Podcast. You are receiving this because you have subscribed to our Substack. If you’d like to manage your Climate Capital Substack subscription, click here. Subscribe to CC Pod wherever you listen to your podcasts:In this special episode of CC Pod, Michael explores Climate Angels with Vijay Rajendran, an experienced Climate Capital Syndicate Investor and Advisor. Vijay is not a typical interviewee for this show. From being an entrepreneur in commerce and fintech to advising both startups and big companies on product and strategy, hi...
2023-11-2130 min
Do I Like It?Varisu Review: Thalapathy Vijay Shines Like a SuperstarThe story of Varisu revolves around estranged Vijay (Vijay) who is the youngest of his two brothers, Jay (Srikanth) and Ajay (Shaam), and his family, helmed by his father Rajendran (Sarathkumar). Vijay fights to create his own identity by breaking free from his father, a business tycoon who treats his family members like mere money-minting machines.
Before the release of Varisu, producer Dil Raju had said that the Vijay-starrer will be a complete package of all the elements that make up a perfect family entertainer. Was he right? To find out, tune into this review by Soundarya A...
2023-01-1210 min
Cineulagamபுது Directors பாத்து நிறைய கத்துக்கிட்டேன்... அது ஒரு இன்பமான வலி | Director Hari Exclusive Interviewபுது Directors பாத்து நிறைய கத்துக்கிட்டேன்... அது ஒரு இன்பமான வலி | Director Hari Exclusive Interview Watch Full Video : https://youtu.be/9arLl5ImX1c Exclusive Interview with Director Hari who is gearing up for his next release Yaanai, starring Arun Vijay and Priya Bhavani Shankar in lead roles. Yaanai has Prakash Raj, Ammu Abhirami, Radikaa Sarathkumar, Yogi Babu, Rajesh, Bose Venkat, Thalaivasal Vijay, Rajendran Raju, Rama, Aishwarya, Jayabalan in Supporting roles with Music taken care by GV Prakash. Director Hari in this interview talks about him completing 20years in Cinema and more about the prequel, sequels of Saamy and Singam. Watch FULL INTERVIEEW to know more. SUBSCRIBE to CINEULAGAM for more informative, entertaining and creative content. ...
2022-06-2122 minCineulagamHari மாமா கதையோட வந்தார்.. கலக்கிட்டார்🔥 Arun Vijay Interview | Yaanai | Priya Bhavani Shankar | CineulagamHari மாமா கதையோட வந்தார்.. கலக்கிட்டார்🔥 Arun Vijay Interview | Yaanai | Priya Bhavani Shankar | Cineulagam Watch Full Video: https://youtu.be/Cvjh16NITww Exclusive Interview with Actor Arun Vijay talking about his upcoming release Yaanai directed by Hari. Yaanai has Arun Vijay, Priya Bhavani Shankar in lead roles. Prakash Raj, Ammu Abhirami, Radikaa Sarathkumar, Yogi Babu, Rajesh, Bose Venkat, Thalaivasal Vijay, Rajendran Raju, Rama, Aishwarya, and Jayabalan in Supporting roles. Music Director GV Prakash composes music, Gopinath handles the cinematography and Anthony is the Editor. Arun Vijay in this interview talks about his working experience in Yaanai and collaborating with Director Hari. Arun Vijay also talks about his character in Agni Siragug...
2022-06-1614 minCineulagamVikram-ல பண்ணத நான் அப்பவே பண்ணிட்டேன் - Director Hari Frank Interview | YaanaiVikram-ல பண்ணத நான் அப்பவே பண்ணிட்டேன் - Director Hari Frank Interview | Yaanai Exclusive Interview with Director Hari who is gearing up for his next release Yaanai, starring Arun Vijay and Priya Bhavani Shankar in lead roles. Yaanai has Prakash Raj, Ammu Abhirami, Radikaa Sarathkumar, Yogi Babu, Rajesh, Bose Venkat, Thalaivasal Vijay, Rajendran Raju, Rama, Aishwarya, Jayabalan in Supporting roles with Music taken care by GV Prakash. Director Hari in this interview talks about him completing 20years in Cinema and more about the prequel, sequels of Saamy and Singam. Watch FULL INTERVIEEW to know more. SUBSCRIBE to CINEULAGAM for more informative, entertaining and creative content. #DirectorHari #ArunVijay #Yaan...
2022-06-1622 min
The Founder Initiative500 Startups's, Vijay Rajendran: Corporate <> Startup Partnerships2021 trend: corporate startup partnerships & M&A will continue to increase
2021-01-2203 min
In The Know by INSEADCareer Development Advice from Finance Professionals - ITK#11What is it that sets finance professionals apart?
The ability to evolve with your industry’s changing priorities can make the difference between building a good career and a truly great one.
The rapid change that has characterised the finance sector over the past 10 years shows little sign of slowing. FinTech firms are leveraging big data from e-commerce and other internet-based services to personalise the customer experience. Established financial services players are responding with their own digital transformations, launching e-commerce platforms and new online wealth management tools. At the same time, emerging technologies such as art...
2020-05-1227 min
In The KnowITK #11 - Career Development Advice from Finance ProfessionalsWhat is it that sets finance professionals apart? The ability to evolve with your industry’s changing priorities can make the difference between building a good career and a truly great one.The rapid change that has characterised the finance sector over the past 10 years shows little sign of slowing. FinTech firms are leveraging big data from e-commerce and other internet-based services to personalise the customer experience. Established financial services players are responding with their own digital transformations, launching e-commerce platforms and new online wealth management tools. At the same time, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are poi...
2020-05-1227 min